The Legendary Mage novel Chapter 69

"Alavin! Did you steal the secrets of Combat Magics? That is a grave sin."

"No wonder you've advanced to Novice Mage; it turns out you've been pilfering Combat Magics. You've got some nerve."

A wave of angry rebukes erupted from beneath the dueling platform, with several Protégés visibly agitated.

"It looks like he's been practicing this Combat Magic for some time."

"Alavin is doomed! If Galos doesn't slay him, the guild's laws will see him suffer a fate worse than death."

"How reckless, flaunting stolen Combat Magics in the arena for all to see."

More and more people came to the realization, shouting in excitement.

Cobalt Strike strictly forbade the unauthorized sharing and learning of Combat Magics, as it was taboo. Once discovered, a mage would be stripped of all their learned spells and expelled from the Order. Alavin, a mere commoner's son, had committed a double sin by daring to learn Combat Magics in secret.

"What's all this ruckus?" Carlys snapped, displeased, standing at the edge of the platform and scolding the crowd. "What's got you all so worked up and eager to see someone fall? What kind of honor is that? Is this a Combat Magic from Cobalt Strike? Look closely! Is it? It's not, so why do you claim Alavin stole from Cobalt Strike? Does Cobalt Strike own all the magic in the world? Shame on you."

Her sharp rebukes spread across the field, silencing many with embarrassment.

"Where did Alavin get such a Combat Magic? He has never left Cobalt Strike," Someone shouted, dissatisfied, pointing at Alavin.

Carlys' temper flared. "Don't come here showing off your stupidity. I'm embarrassed for you! Two months ago, Alavin was taken by Botanic Haven Protégés to gather herbs in the forest, where he found a Combat Magic, Indigo Viper!"

"And because you say so, it's true?"